Embark on a serene 4.5-hour float down Alberta’s Wapiti River, guided by palaeo-experts exploring dinosaur fossil sites. Enjoy stunning nature, a delicious picnic, and fascinating insights into the region’s ancient past.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for individuals with moderate fitness; the float is gentle with minimal physical strain.
Wildlife
History
The Wapiti Formation is one of the richest dinosaur fossil sites in Canada, making this region a hotspot for palaeontological discoveries.
Conservation
Tours are conducted with strict environmental guidelines to protect sensitive fossil sites and maintain river health.
Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum
Embark on a serene 4.5-hour float down Alberta’s Wapiti River, guided by palaeo-experts exploring dinosaur fossil sites. Enjoy stunning nature, a delicious picnic, and fascinating insights into the region’s ancient past.
Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum in Wembley, Alberta is a regional centre for palaeontology and public education. The museum preserves and interprets local fossil heritage and operates research-led public programs that connect families, students and researchers to Alberta’s deep past.
Exhibits highlight mounted skeletons, interactive displays and rotating collections that showcase discoveries from the Pipestone Creek bonebed and the Wapiti Formation.
The museum runs guided field experiences and seasonal events led by trained palaeo-professionals, including the Pipestone Creek excavation visits, “Palaeontologist for a Day” digs, and the Bonebed Tour featuring the Pachyrhinosaurus skull known as BIG SAM. River-based outings such as the “Secrets of the Wapiti” float focus on regional geology, fossils and safe outdoor interpretation. Family-focused programs include Night at the Museum sleepovers, birthday parties with gallery access, Nesting Grounds early childhood sessions, and School’s Out PD Camps for ages 5–13.
Educational offerings extend to Homeschool Days and annual Science Festivals like Palaeo Palooza, providing hands-on activities, maker spaces, and film screenings. Admission options include full-day General Admission tickets with no re-entry. The museum partners with researchers, community groups and volunteers to conduct fieldwork and curate findings, following accepted conservation and documentation standards. Accessibility, safety and evidence-based interpretation are priorities. Visitors can expect guided learning, tangible fossil encounters, and professionally run events that support palaeontology, local heritage tourism and science education. Curatorial staff maintain research-grade collections, publish findings in peer-reviewed outlets when appropriate, and collaborate with universities to ensure scientific rigour and long-term preservation of specimens for future generations.
Location
Wembley, Alberta
Near Pipestone Creek and Wapiti River
Tours Offered
11 Experiences
From floats to excavation days
Family Programs
Multiple age programs
Birthday parties and camps available
Reserve seats for guided floats, excavations and family events at the Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum — spaces fill fast.
Wear quick-drying clothing
Opt for clothes that dry quickly to stay comfortable after potential splashes during the float.
Bring waterproof bags
Protect your electronics and valuables in waterproof containers during the river float.
Apply biodegradable sunscreen
Use eco-friendly sunscreen to protect your skin and preserve the surrounding environment.
Listen carefully to guides
Palaeo-experts provide valuable insights that enrich the experience, so stay attentive during stops.
Quick-drying clothing
Keeps you comfortable and dry during the river float.
summer
Waterproof dry bag
Protects your gear and electronics from water exposure.
Wide-brimmed hat
Provides sun protection during the float and picnic.
summer
Biodegradable sunscreen
Protects your skin without harming the river ecosystem.
summer
Research Site
Pipestone Creek bonebed
Active excavations and fieldwork